Mel Findlay, Pat White & Kirsten Oliver
Despite being a well-known species, information on breeding seasonality of Eurasian otter is not well studied or understood. Quantifying any spatial variation in seasonal biases in breeding is likely to enable better protection of otters during their natal and cub rearing phases and improve ability to identify and monitor breeding sites. Evidence of seasonality of breeding varies both across Europe and within the UK and because otters are secretive in their breeding behavior, it is challenging to study.
In this programme of research we are using a diverse range of datasets to try to assess evidence for seasonal breeding in otters and the extent to which any such seasonality varies geographically. This use of multiple sources of data is key since it generates wider geographical coverage and allows us to counter the risk of biases that may be inherent in any one single source. Data sources include contributed images and camera-trap videos of otter families/cubs, roadkill data contributed by Dr Elizabeth Chadwick at Cardiff University, data from otter cub rescues (either directly from rescue centres or reported in the media), biological records and hunting bags.
Project students
2023 MSc student Kirsten Oliver
2024 MSc student Lizzie Danes
Data submission
We welcome the submission of any records you have of otter cubs or families, particularly those from photographs or videos (whether taken manually or with camera-traps). All contributions will be acknowledged.
Pat White | Method(Ec)ology 